Representation in the Medical Field is the Key to Success- Asha Davis by Asha

Representation in the Medical Field is the Key to Success- Asha Davis by Asha - June 2020 Scholarship Essay

After undergraduate school, I want to be able to have multiple internships in the medical field. These internships and volunteer experiences will force me to implement my biological knowledge outside of the classroom and administer it in a practical way to the community in which I will serve. Whether I give advice and care to patients in a hospital or teach health classes at a local urban community center, I plan to use my knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to provide a positive impact on society and work toward improving our community’s health. After completing my undergraduate studies I plan to enroll in a Physician Assistant program and build on that degree with a speciality in surgery. Additionally, throughout the rest of my academic career, I plan to expand on my medical knowledge and become the first in my immediate family to obtain a doctorates degree in a field of science.

The advancement of underrepresented groups in STEM fields is significantly important to the growth of the area. With the current progressive climate of the United States, representation of people from numerous backgrounds and identities is essential. STEM is a traditionally white male dominated area of study because it is one of the most high paying professions in the United States. Yet, that preexisting stagnant and uniformed environment hinders the potential accomplishments of the discipline. It is not enough to only have underrepresented groups be hired more by STEM companies because staying at a baseline entry job not only cripples the enthusiasm of the employee, but prevents the company of flourishing with new ideas, interpretations, and perspectives. The key is advancing those individuals to higher roles within the institution in order to have a greater influence on the future of the company.

Diversity enriches the conversation and image about what it means to be a member of the STEM community. Race, religion, sexual orientation, and more are all categories that welcome diversity into an association. These unique characteristics of individuals trigger a variety of concepts to be introduced within the conversation and stimulate deeper responses to the prompt. Essentially, variety is what challenges the human mind to push past its comfort zone and grow by thinking of others not similar to itself. Also, diversity introduces the opportunity for others to be content with change. This is crucial for people within the STEM community because our area of study advances everyday and thrives off of innovative creativity.

Health is not a top priority to most individuals in urban areas because of its cost and limited access. The fear black men have of seeking medical health and trusting medical advice is a challenge that I want to combat in my community. My dad and other men in my family lost trust in the medical profession because they know historically how poorly medical care was given to black men. I have been inspired by his experiences and history to help my people and use science to assist and educate my community. By studying the field of medicine, I hope to restore trust in the medical profession by educating people on the importance of maintaining their health and providing proper medical services.